The Portuguese cut refers to a particular type of faceting where the gem is cut with two rows of rhomboidal and three rows of triangular facets above and below the girdle. (The girdle is the line that divides the top or crown of the stone from the bottom or pavilion). The Portuguese cut thus has an extra row of facets on the crown, and this style enhances the brilliance of the gem. The Portuguese cut is one of the most popular fancy cuts in the market and you'll find many varieties of gems cut in this style. You'll notice how Portguese-cut stones have a smaller table due to the extra row of facets on the crown.